If you are a teacher, you have most likely encountered situations where a parent has told you information of a sensitive matter that has left you with uncertainty in how to respond. You may feel uncomfortable, unsure of what to say, and at a loss...

Preparing for the Parent-Teacher Conference
At least once per year, you will be contacted by your child’s school inviting you in for a parent-teacher conference. For many, this is an exciting time to get an update on how your child is...

We all need privacy from time to time. Students are of no exception. This is especially true when you need to address a personal topic with them. Really, its nobody else’s business what may be going on with a student personally...

Is there a difference? Well, actually, yes! It is very important for parents and teachers to understand the differences between tantrums and meltdowns. Although they can consist of similar behaviors like yelling, crying, hitting, spitting, or...

It’s a feeling I will never forget…leaving my 6 month old at daycare for the first time! I expected that she would have some difficulty with my leaving her ( and vice versa!) but I didn’t anticipate it to go on as long as it...

Many young children are visual learners. Often times, when upset, kids will say things that they don’t really mean. (Ok, who are we kidding, some adults do this too!) Today I’d like to share with you two strategies to help provide...

Sensory Processing Disorders in the Classroom
Ask any preschool teacher what one of the most difficult aspects of their job is and 9 out of 10 times they are going to tell you it’s dealing with problem behaviors. When you have a child in...

Hocus Pocus, This is How We Focus!
The setting: Circle time in a 3 year old preschool class.
The Teacher claps twice then states in an animated voice: “Hocus pocus,”
Children Respond “…this is how we focus!”
I heard this cute little...

Understanding Positive Discipline in Schools
Before we even address how this works, please understand that discipline is not punishment. Let me say that again, discipline is not punishment! These are two different concepts. Although having a...

Attention Seeking Students
They follow you. They interrupt you. They talk out. They touch your stuff. They touch you. They are in your face. They talk louder and louder until they get your attention (or are told to go on their way). They are a...

Students Who Talk Out During Class Time…
I don’t know about you, but being interrupted while you are talking gets under my skin. It’s almost as bad as when someone lies to me. In either case, it is rude behavior! Call it...

Communication is Critical
On-going communication with your students and their their parents is key. Phone calls, notes, emails, high-fives, and token rewards are all examples of ways to communicate positive news to students and parents. Note...